Title: 5 Japanese Wooden Tea Caddies (Chū‑Natsume 中棗), Black & Red Lacquer with Maki‑E (蒔絵) These five exquisite chū‑natsume were all crafted in Japan during the Showa period (circa 1950s–1960s). A natsume is a specialized container used in Japanese tea ceremonies to hold matcha powder for thin tea, named for its small, rounded shape resembling a jujube fruit. 1. Black Lacquer Maki‑E (蒔絵) Tea Caddy (Chū‑Natsume 中棗) with Noh Mask and Waka Poetry Motifs Dimensions: H approx. 6.7 cm × Max Dia. approx. 6.6 cm Weight: 66.5 g Materials: Wood core, Japanese lacquer, gold powder maki‑e The caddy is entirely coated in deep black lacquer, creating a striking contrast with the gold decorative patterns. The lid features a combination of maki‑e and raden techniques to depict a character mask from Noh theater, showcasing rich colors and intricate detailing. The body is adorned with cursive script of traditional Japanese waka poetry rendered in gold maki‑e, imbuing the piece with a scholarly elegance. As cornerstones of traditional Japanese culture, Noh theater and waka poetry are seamlessly integrated into this tea utensil, reflecting the profound fusion of the tea ceremony with art and literature. 2. Red Lacquer Gold Maki‑E (蒔絵) Tea Caddy (Chū‑Natsume 中棗) with Thousand Paper Cranes Motifs Dimensions: H approx. 6.8 cm × Max Dia. approx. 6.4 cm Weight: 61.1 g Materials: Wood core, Japanese lacquer, gold powder maki‑e The caddy boasts a smooth, lustrous finish of warm red lacquer. Both the lid and body are decorated with gold maki‑e patterns of thousand paper cranes and arrow motifs, characterized by fluid lines and auspicious symbolism. In Japanese culture, origami cranes symbolize longevity, peace, and heartfelt wishes, often used for prayers and gift‑giving—their inclusion in a tea caddy adds a layer of positive intent to tea gatherings. The arrow motifs represent smooth progress and unobstructed fortune, complementing the cranes’ symbolism to convey wishes for a perfect tea ceremony and a clear, tranquil state of mind. 3. Black Lacquer High Maki‑E (蒔絵) Tea Caddy (Chū‑Natsume 中棗) with Hibiscus Motifs Dimensions: H approx. 6.8 cm × Max Dia. approx. 6.7 cm Weight: 56 g Materials: Wood core, Japanese lacquer, gold powder maki‑e Crafted with a wood core, this tea caddy is fully coated in deep, glossy black lacquer. The lid features a blooming hibiscus flower created using red lacquer high maki‑e, with petals rendered in layered, vivid hues; the leaves and stems are sculpted with successive applications of dark green lacquer, showcasing clear veins and a three‑dimensional, lifelike appearance. The bold contrast between the colorful floral decoration and the black lacquer base achieves a balance of opulence and refinement. The piece employs advanced high maki‑e and colored lacquer relief techniques: the red petals combine colored lacquer with maki‑e, while the green leaves are built up through repeated layers of dark green lacquer to form a raised relief effect. This meticulous process—involving shaping the lacquer into leaf outlines and veins, followed by sanding and polishing for smooth, defined edges—results in a dramatic “flower floating on leaves, leaves standing on the vessel” dimensional effect. In Japanese culture, hibiscus symbolizes passion, beauty, and vitality, and is often associated with good fortune and prosperity. It is a classic motif widely used in traditional crafts such as lacquerware and textiles. 4. Black Lacquer Gold Maki‑E (蒔絵) Tea Caddy (Chū‑Natsume 中棗) with Maple Leaves, Flowing Water, and Waka Scroll Motifs Dimensions: H approx. 6.8 cm × Max Dia. approx. 6.7 cm Weight: 56 g Materials: Wood core, Japanese lacquer, gold powder maki‑e The lid is decorated with gold maki‑e patterns of maple leaves, flowing water, and a prominent red waka poetry scroll. Maple leaves are an iconic symbol of autumn in Japan, while the waka scroll represents the nation’s classical literary and poetic heritage. The body features a single maple leaf and scroll grass pattern in gold maki‑e, echoing the lid’s design for a cohesive, elegant aesthetic. Note: This tea caddy shows noticeable signs of use consistent with its age. 5. Red Lacquer Gold Maki‑E (蒔絵) Tea Caddy (Chū‑Natsume 中棗) with Standing Hina Dolls Motifs Dimensions: H approx. 6.8 cm × Max Dia. approx. 6.6 cm Weight: 50.9 g Materials: Wood core, Japanese lacquer, gold powder maki‑e, colored lacquer The lid is adorned with standing hina dolls depicted in gold maki‑e and colored lacquer—these are iconic symbols of the Japanese Doll’s Festival, symbolizing wishes for the healthy growth and happy marriage of young girls. The warm red lacquer base harmonizes beautifully with the gold patterns. The rim of the caddy is accented with decorative lacquer lines in white, green, and red, and the interior features a black lacquer finish, demonstrating exquisite craftsmanship that balances grandeur and elegance. By integrating folk motifs with tea ceremony aesthetics, this piece embodies Japan’s reverence for seasons, rituals, and beauty, making it a functional work of art with significant cultural value. Condition Note Due to age, all five tea caddies exhibit natural oxidation and minor signs of use. Overall, they are in good condition. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs or the courier may contact you for customs clearance. Kindly reply promptly, as delays may result in the package being returned. Contacting them directly can help speed up the process: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The picture is part of the description. The color of the item may be slightly different from the picture (due to camera and screen settings). - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.